Executive Functions in Children with ADHD

Abstract

Executive Functions (EFs) play an important role in everyday life, lifelong achievement, and quality of life. Patients with developmental problems are more likely to have executive dysfunctions, especially those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), who often have impaired working memory, inhibitory control, and organization. Currently, many studies have shown that poor EFs are not directly related to behavioral problems and social impairments due to ADHD symptoms. However, ADHD patients with executive dysfunctions tend to have difficulties in the learning process. Therefore, evaluating EFs along with ADHD symptoms is essential. The most widely used tools for EF assessment include the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) and the Executive Function assessment in Mahidol University version (MU-EF). Promoting EFs should be done in conjunction with treating ADHD symptoms in ADHD patients with executive dysfunctions. This article aims to review the knowledge of EFs, EF assessment, and evidence-based interventions promoting EFs in ADHD patients, such as pharmacological treatment (Methylphenidate), cognitive training, exercise, white noise, and organization skill intervention.